Mai

I can't believe I lost 2 hours of my life watching a movie that ends in triumph for the character I most despised. This confounding tumultuous tale of a carnival-like Vietnamese subculture awash in masseuses, evil neighbors, street thugs and perverts might be exciting to some viewers but it's one rabbit hole I wish I never ventured down. While the fact that many Vietnamese kids will dutifully worship at the feet of judgemental, controlling and selfish parents is something I've seen firsthand, it doesn't make it any easier to witness or accept. From the get-go, the film's protagonists all seem to suffer from a culturally pervasive sort of Stockholm Syndrome. Despite an ephemeral moment or two of promising romantic charm, overall I found the story relentlessly disturbing.

I think I never really watch a lot of Vietnamese film in my life, when this movie release on streaming service, I never really interested to watch it, but when all the hype rising about how good this movie is, I just watch, want to try Vietnamese cinema. I think what is strong from this movie is the female lead, she is so incredibly beautiful, you cannot take eyes off her. Then the story is riveting, it keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering what will happen next. I think the story move very smoothly, all the characters are interesting enough to keep your interest. Especially Phuong Anh Dao, I watch a lot of movie but I think I never seen any actress that is so breathtaking like her, I'm gonna start marathon Vietnamese cinema, dig in a bit what's good they have.

I am being generous here, I think the movie sits somewhere between 7 and 8/10

To foreign friends who do not have the background: the director of this movie used to be an MC and comedian and he worked really hard to rise to the top face in Viet's show biz. Despite many past and ongoing controversies, what cannot be denied is his talents and hard work.

The movie starts with a intertwining scence where the Mai mopping her apt floor and her neighbor banging girls. I think it's a pretty good funny scene and a good sign of a quality movie.

Sure the dialogue is not as natural as you see foreign movies but it's a common problem with Vietnamese. We have.

In the bustling streets of Vietnam, where tradition intertwines with modernity, "Mai" paints a poignant and visually stunning portrait of a single mother's quest for love amidst cultural intricacies. Directed by the visionary filmmaker Tran Thanh, this enchanting tale transcends borders, inviting audiences into a world where love blooms in unexpected places.

The film follows the journey of Mai, a devoted single mother navigating the complexities of Eastern Asian culture while yearning for companionship. Portrayed with grace and depth by the talented lead actress, Mai's character embodies resilience and hope as she embarks on a quest to find love against the backdrop of traditional values and societal expectations.

One of the most striking elements of "Mai" is its immersive portrayal of Vietnam. The meticulous attention to detail not only adds authenticity to the narrative but also serves as a window into the cultural nuances that influence the characters' choices and relationships.

At its core, "Mai" is a celebration of love in all its forms - romantic, familial, and self-discovery. Through heartfelt performances and evocative storytelling, the film explores the universal themes of longing, acceptance, and the transformative power of human connection. As Mai embarks on a journey of self-discovery, audiences are invited to reflect on their own experiences of love and belonging.

Visually stunning and emotionally resonant, "Mai" is a cinematic masterpiece that captivates the heart and soul. With its compelling narrative, exquisite cinematography, and stellar performances, this enchanting tale leaves a lasting impression, reminding us that love knows no boundaries - it is eternal, like the blossoms "Mai" that adorn Vietnam's spring.

Everyone who goes to see the movie is sad for the main character, but I am happy for Mai.

Maybe she missed a chance to love, but in return Mai found a place for herself. An independent, successful woman will have the right to CHOOSE, instead of shrinking into someone else's choice.

People will not care how disadvantaged, miserable you were, whether you endured, or whether your fall was painful or not? People only look at where you stand in the end, then either admire or despise. If you are successful, then all your past is a catalyst, but if not, it's all trash! That's Life!

"Thank you for not waiting for me" sounds heartbreaking, but it is very true. Because if Sau had waited for Mai, would Mai have been happy to marry into a family that once despised her? Would Sau have had enough courage to become a strong shoulder for a woman with a strong personality like Mai? So the director very delicately ended the film with a saying that, for me, is the most profound lesson: "It's not easy, try your best!" Love can make us temporarily forget everything to look into each other's eyes, but to hold our heads high and look at life, to give ourselves a place in the game, love is not enough, we need a foundation!

I hope all women will take the time to watch "MAI" at least once, not to be sad or feel sorry, but to see that every pain has its own value, every scar can be healed, and sometimes we need to hit rock bottom, to discover that in addition to tears, we are also given wings to fly.

Congratulations to the Tran Thanh Town team for creating the most satisfying, satisfying and complete work of art ever. Although the ending is not as beautiful as a dream, it is emotional enough to revive the dormant desires, and is a healing medicine for 'old' women - old but if you try, you can still be an antique, not a scrap, like MAI.